Miami vs. Notre Dame Playoff Debate, Franklin’s Break in Mandel’s Mailbag
As the college football season progresses, the debate around playoff rankings has intensified, particularly between teams such as Miami and Notre Dame. Both teams currently hold an 8-2 record, prompting fans and analysts to argue their respective standings in the College Football Playoff (CFP) race.
Miami vs. Notre Dame Playoff Debate
Miami supporters argue their victory over Notre Dame in Week 1 holds significant weight, while Notre Dame fans point to recent results and suggest that their losses were to tougher opponents compared to Miami’s setbacks. The complexity of head-to-head matchups adds another layer. There’s a belief that earlier games, such as their August encounter, should not overshadow the performance throughout the entire season.
Key Points of Contention
- Both teams are currently 8-2.
- Miami’s head-to-head win in their opening game is a focal point for their supporters.
- Notre Dame fans argue about the caliber of their opponents in losses.
The timing of losses is an essential factor. Games played later in the season might be more indicative of a team’s current capabilities. The debate continues regarding whether previous results should significantly impact playoff rankings. Each team must justify its position to the selection committee based on their entire set of twelve games.
Shifts in Coaching and Team Dynamics
In light of coaching changes, speculation arises on potential moves, particularly regarding James Franklin possibly taking the helm at Virginia Tech. If this transition occurs, it could transform Virginia Tech into a more competitive team within the ACC, especially given the current struggles of other conference leaders.
Coaching Staff and Future Prospects
- Franklin’s hiring could elevate Virginia Tech’s performance.
- ACC dynamics are shifting, creating opportunities for emerging contenders.
The 2025 season marks a critical point for the CFP, with newfound rules around team selection and metrics coming into play, particularly benefiting teams from the SEC. As the season progresses, the implications of these changes will greatly affect how conferences are represented in the playoffs.
Remaining Contenders for the CFP
Heading into the closing weeks of the season, several teams still remain alive for a shot at the College Football Playoff. The landscape is expansive, particularly with a wide-open competition in the Group of 5. As it stands, the following teams are contenders:
| Conference | Teams |
|---|---|
| ACC | Georgia Tech, Virginia, Miami, Pitt, SMU, Duke |
| Big 12 | Texas Tech, BYU, Utah, Arizona State, Cincinnati, Houston |
| Big Ten | Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon, USC, Michigan |
| SEC | Texas A&M, Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Alabama, Vanderbilt, Texas |
| Independent | Notre Dame |
| Group of 5 | Navy, Tulane, North Texas, East Carolina, USF, San Diego State, James Madison |
In total, 32 teams are contending for 12 playoff spots as the season approaches its end. This is a clear indication of how the expansion of the playoff format has engaged more universities and fanbases later into the season. With the potential for significant changes in rankings and playoff placements, the stakes are higher than ever as teams vie for a chance at the championship.
